I’m seriously considering the CRF. I’ve watched your videos, and I’m impressed with, what you’re able to do with that motorcycle! It’s a lot of the same things I want to do with it. It looks like a great machine! I also like the Honda reliability. I’ve used various Honda products over the years, and have been very impressed with them. I feel this would be no different. The CRF is definitely the all around bike I’m looking for!
Thank you for your comment! I need to get out and show more hardcore trail riding, not just what I’ve shown on the videos so far. It is a very capable motorcycle on all accounts. No terrain is off limits with this bike, and to have the reliability, that’s what I considered before the purchase. If I had made this review on just the basis of the motorcycle, the video would have been about a minute long, because there is absolutely no cons to this bike...given you take into consideration its intended purpose.
Thanks for the vid. I have a 450L also. It’s damn fun and at 58 years old I’m loving it. I have an ims tank waiting for install and some flatland racing rad guards. I heard it’s a tight fit but will work. I have the Double-Take mirrors on it but otherwise stock at the moment. I do different types of riding so I also am waiting for a new 300L coming in March. I enjoyed the vid. Thank you.
Good job and well put together video. I'm a "Honda Guy" and always enjoy watching other videos to pick up tips from other guys who ride Hondas. My newest bike is a 2021 CRF450X which l really like. I've done a lot of upgrades but being that the stock titanium tank is only 2.0 gallons, I'll have to invest in the 3.0 gallon IMS aftermarket tank so I'm not stressing about running out of fuel.
Great review! Vortex/Q4/Megabomb + (tank and seat unfortunately) = The best, most versatile dual sport I've owned. Scratching my head though as to why they sell street legal bikes with less than 4 gallon tanks and seats you can't sit on.
It is nice to hear someone who likes this bike, i have been looking at adding a more dirt capable dual sport to my stable, and i get so tired of hearing how bad this bike is, i just don't think its awful has to be better than the ole DRZ in my mind. ? Thanks for sharing your thoughts and know you have a new sub. dale
My friend Reggie has a DRZ/SM. He loves his bike, but the CRF is definitely more off-road capable. Every motorcycle has its own specific usage. I consider a DRZ, to be the KLR650’s more capable and fun sized second cousin. Sure there’s a hefty price tag, sure you have short oil intervals, but there is absolutely no way in hell a DRZ could every come close to the performance of the CRF. That is a fact.
Was that a red FDB sticker?!? That’s looked awesome. Good review, great editing! That is a LOT of miles for that period of time, that’s awesome. Question: if you didn’t have this bike and you couldn’t replace it, what OTHER bike would you consider as your ONE bike?
I created that on my wife’s Cricut actually. I would actually look at a Tenere 700, KTM 690, or the Husky 701. They all make great small to mid size ADV bikes. There’s really nothing that I think compares to the CRF450L.
Boomer Sooner! I've had 10 or so Hondas since graduating from OU in '87. XRs and CRs. The Navy forced me to ride them everywhere from Florida and Hawaii to California, Texas and Arizona (where I currently live). They're indestructible and I'm certain all my former Hondas are still out there pushing the earth. I currently ride a F800GSA and am waiting for the local shop to get a 450RL so I can chop some broccoli in the tighter stuff here in southern AZ. Ignoring how expensive they've gotten (I bought a XR650R in 2000 for $5600, pricey compared to my '93 CR500R for $3600), Honda builds durability into every bike. Sure, the KTM clan (Husky, Gas Gas, KTM, yada yada) builds a better bike out of the box, but they become relics when a Honda is just getting its seasoning. You've gat a great bike. Thanks for the video!
I’m sold! Actually trying to land a deal on a 400 mile bike and making an 18 hour round trip to get it. The savings will pay for the upgrades I’ll want. Worse case is I’ll buy a 2021 new.
@@WetBananaMike Just brought home the 2021 on Saturday! Beautiful bike! That throttle choppiness is a real thing that I'll need to resolve, but other than that this thing is going to be fun. Need to square away my insurance and my endorsement so I can start riding!
Congratulations on the purchase man!!! You’re going to love that thing! I will say that the throttle is waaaay smoother with the Vortex ECU. It carries a hefty price tag, but worth the difference in performance.
It could have been a contender... The oil changes are one thing. The other is spending $1200 to fix the twitchy throttle (Vortex + exhaust). Another $1000 for a Rekluse if you want to ride it loaded down with gear in really gnarly terrain to help with stalling. Lastly, Honda apparently has had a problem with dumping gas into the oil on it's fuel injected 450 engines (R, X or L). If you own one of these bike, do yourself a favor, watch your oil levels in the case closely and send it to Blackstone at change. Some have been able to fix this with fuel pump socks + new injectors and / or with switches that open the thermostat sooner to ensure proper engine temperature in cold weather.
If you can’t afford it just say that😂😂No matter what bike you get in this category (including KTM) needs an ecu, this is common knowledge. As far as exhaust, you don’t need one. Same story with the clutch if you know how to ride
@blazerboiz5996 "Any bike in this category needs an ECU". Betas need zero ECU upgrades to run right and with the 450L there were plenty of documented complaints rom experienced owners at the time. Pretty common knowledge - at least to those who actually know what they're talking about...
Great video. I just purchased the 2022 version of this bike. I see that you run the Tubliss system. I was thinking of doing the same but it’s not recommended for the highway? What has been your experience and thoughts on using Tubliss on the street. My setup and usage will be much like yours. Thank you.
It will take 3.5 - 4oz of weight on the opposite side of the wheel from the rim lock. If balanced properly, and using D.O.T. tires, I would never think you would have an issue. I never experienced any issues during road use.
Thank you for the video and review. Wondering if you have aftermarket ECU? I didn’t care for the throttle reaction and I don’t notice it on your video. Wondering if it’s my riding skill, or the bike? God willing, I am picking up mine Monday. Can’t wait!
I bet! Who started making them? Before I traded my CRF in, I was hoping someone would start producing them. I know the output splines were different between the 450L and the 450R.
It’s works really well actually. I’ve typically ran (depending on sidewall stiffness of the different tires) 14 - 18lbs on the street. I’ve NEVER had any issues with the system; leaks, deflation, bead issues... You do however have to balance the wheels with about 3.75- 5oz. opposite of the rim lock. I use the brass reusable wheel weights, and balance myself. It does make changing tires more difficult, but I don’t have to worry about a flat in the middle of nowhere. Just follow the instructions, AND FOR GODS SAKE USE ARMORALL LIBERALLY!!! The Armorall Protectant is the secret to success!!
The big hold back for me on the bike is the valve maintenance interval. Shim under bucket valves are not exactly super easy to deal with. And it seems they recommend a top-end refresh every 32,000 miles. I likely change my oil far more often then a thousand miles on my wr250r. Do you plan to do the wrenching on that yourself or for major service do you take it to the dealer?
Hey Mike great 4k review, I had a question since your riding style seems similar to mine. Being a 450 based off the R, does the bike want to come up/wheelie when unintended? I've never rode a 450 4 stroke on the street before (250s mainly) and was worried if say I'm just coming from a stop into traffic that the front end is going to pop up. Your video doesn't seem to show that however which is making me interested in it.
Great question! With proper throttle and clutch technique and seating position it is very mild mannered. Of course any bike will be, unless you ride aggressively, then yes the front will come up. I generally never get into first after I leave the house, unless I’m in a parking lot. It has plenty of power to leave in second from a light. The ecu and pipe added power, but even then it is still very rideable on the road!!
I do still have the plastic bash/skid plate still on my CRF. If your local trails generally consist of logs and smaller rock ledges, then yes I would consider it sufficient. If your riding on rocky, or larger sized obstacles that are only a couple inches wide at their peak, then I would definitely pick up an aftermarket setup. Great question!
It does indeed with the IMS. It usually comes on between 100-115 miles or so. Depends on what type of riding I’ve been doing... highway, single track, minimum maintenance and gravel. If I’m not mistaken, it comes on when there is .8 to .6 gallons left. I will say that with the Vortex ECU, it does keep your fuel consumption really close to the actual amount shown on the display. I average between 44-48 mpg depending on the type of riding...
@@Bnrjms True. Some suffer from reliability issues just like KTM. I still think they are great bikes - you just need to thoroughly test them locally - before going around the World.
I’m seriously considering the CRF. I’ve watched your videos, and I’m impressed with, what you’re able to do with that motorcycle! It’s a lot of the same things I want to do with it. It looks like a great machine! I also like the Honda reliability. I’ve used various Honda products over the years, and have been very impressed with them. I feel this would be no different. The CRF is definitely the all around bike I’m looking for!
Thank you for your comment! I need to get out and show more hardcore trail riding, not just what I’ve shown on the videos so far. It is a very capable motorcycle on all accounts. No terrain is off limits with this bike, and to have the reliability, that’s what I considered before the purchase. If I had made this review on just the basis of the motorcycle, the video would have been about a minute long, because there is absolutely no cons to this bike...given you take into consideration its intended purpose.
Thanks for the vid. I have a 450L also. It’s damn fun and at 58 years old I’m loving it. I have an ims tank waiting for install and some flatland racing rad guards. I heard it’s a tight fit but will work. I have the Double-Take mirrors on it but otherwise stock at the moment. I do different types of riding so I also am waiting for a new 300L coming in March. I enjoyed the vid. Thank you.
Thanks for watching, and as well, thank you for your comment!!
Good job and well put together video. I'm a "Honda Guy" and always enjoy watching other videos to pick up tips from other guys who ride Hondas.
My newest bike is a 2021 CRF450X which l really like. I've done a lot of upgrades but being that the stock titanium tank is only 2.0 gallons, I'll have to invest in the 3.0 gallon IMS aftermarket tank so I'm not stressing about running out of fuel.
Agreed! Thank you for the comment, and sorry for such a late reply!
Great review! Vortex/Q4/Megabomb + (tank and seat unfortunately) = The best, most versatile dual sport I've owned. Scratching my head though as to why they sell street legal bikes with less than 4 gallon tanks and seats you can't sit on.
Hey I know that town!! Getting my 22’ 450rl end of June! Sure I’ll see you out and about
She looks beautiful! Awesome review.
Thank you Ricky!!
It is nice to hear someone who likes this bike, i have been looking at adding a more dirt capable dual sport to my stable, and i get so tired of hearing how bad this bike is, i just don't think its awful has to be better than the ole DRZ in my mind. ?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and know you have a new sub.
dale
My friend Reggie has a DRZ/SM. He loves his bike, but the CRF is definitely more off-road capable. Every motorcycle has its own specific usage. I consider a DRZ, to be the KLR650’s more capable and fun sized second cousin. Sure there’s a hefty price tag, sure you have short oil intervals, but there is absolutely no way in hell a DRZ could every come close to the performance of the CRF. That is a fact.
That looks like a really fun bike. I'd love to see a video comparing it to your last bike because that thing was a BEAST.
I may just do that Percy!!
hi Mike Great review i think the honda will still be going the 20 years time
Was that a red FDB sticker?!? That’s looked awesome.
Good review, great editing! That is a LOT of miles for that period of time, that’s awesome.
Question: if you didn’t have this bike and you couldn’t replace it, what OTHER bike would you consider as your ONE bike?
I created that on my wife’s Cricut actually. I would actually look at a Tenere 700, KTM 690, or the Husky 701. They all make great small to mid size ADV bikes. There’s really nothing that I think compares to the CRF450L.
That bike is sic brotha.🔥🔥🔥👌🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻. Definitely all the right mods great video may 👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻. Sweet sweet sweet
Boomer Sooner!
I've had 10 or so Hondas since graduating from OU in '87. XRs and CRs. The Navy forced me to ride them everywhere from Florida and Hawaii to California, Texas and Arizona (where I currently live). They're indestructible and I'm certain all my former Hondas are still out there pushing the earth. I currently ride a F800GSA and am waiting for the local shop to get a 450RL so I can chop some broccoli in the tighter stuff here in southern AZ.
Ignoring how expensive they've gotten (I bought a XR650R in 2000 for $5600, pricey compared to my '93 CR500R for $3600), Honda builds durability into every bike. Sure, the KTM clan (Husky, Gas Gas, KTM, yada yada) builds a better bike out of the box, but they become relics when a Honda is just getting its seasoning.
You've gat a great bike. Thanks for the video!
I’m sold! Actually trying to land a deal on a 400 mile bike and making an 18 hour round trip to get it. The savings will pay for the upgrades I’ll want. Worse case is I’ll buy a 2021 new.
That’s AWESOME!!! Either way it’s a great motorcycle!! I do like the new plastics!!
@@WetBananaMike Just brought home the 2021 on Saturday! Beautiful bike! That throttle choppiness is a real thing that I'll need to resolve, but other than that this thing is going to be fun. Need to square away my insurance and my endorsement so I can start riding!
Congratulations on the purchase man!!! You’re going to love that thing! I will say that the throttle is waaaay smoother with the Vortex ECU. It carries a hefty price tag, but worth the difference in performance.
It could have been a contender... The oil changes are one thing. The other is spending $1200 to fix the twitchy throttle (Vortex + exhaust). Another $1000 for a Rekluse if you want to ride it loaded down with gear in really gnarly terrain to help with stalling. Lastly, Honda apparently has had a problem with dumping gas into the oil on it's fuel injected 450 engines (R, X or L). If you own one of these bike, do yourself a favor, watch your oil levels in the case closely and send it to Blackstone at change. Some have been able to fix this with fuel pump socks + new injectors and / or with switches that open the thermostat sooner to ensure proper engine temperature in cold weather.
🤣 what ever dude . .
If you can’t afford it just say that😂😂No matter what bike you get in this category (including KTM) needs an ecu, this is common knowledge. As far as exhaust, you don’t need one. Same story with the clutch if you know how to ride
@blazerboiz5996 "Any bike in this category needs an ECU". Betas need zero ECU upgrades to run right and with the 450L there were plenty of documented complaints rom experienced owners at the time. Pretty common knowledge - at least to those who actually know what they're talking about...
Great video. I just purchased the 2022 version of this bike. I see that you run the Tubliss system. I was thinking of doing the same but it’s not recommended for the highway? What has been your experience and thoughts on using Tubliss on the street. My setup and usage will be much like yours. Thank you.
It will take 3.5 - 4oz of weight on the opposite side of the wheel from the rim lock. If balanced properly, and using D.O.T. tires, I would never think you would have an issue. I never experienced any issues during road use.
Thank you for the video and review. Wondering if you have aftermarket ECU? I didn’t care for the throttle reaction and I don’t notice it on your video. Wondering if it’s my riding skill, or the bike?
God willing, I am picking up mine Monday. Can’t wait!
i just added 14T front sprocket..works great for street riding!
I bet! Who started making them? Before I traded my CRF in, I was hoping someone would start producing them. I know the output splines were different between the 450L and the 450R.
@@WetBananaMike Rocky Mountain ATV/MC
Awesome!!
Great review! Do you still own this bike?
I don’t, but I will have another. Traded it in on my Pan America, but when I have it paid off in a couple years, I’m definitely buying another!!
@@WetBananaMike Do you regret letting it go?
How does the Tubliss system work on the street? I’m thinking about getting it for my 450L at least in the rear.
It’s works really well actually. I’ve typically ran (depending on sidewall stiffness of the different tires) 14 - 18lbs on the street. I’ve NEVER had any issues with the system; leaks, deflation, bead issues... You do however have to balance the wheels with about 3.75- 5oz. opposite of the rim lock. I use the brass reusable wheel weights, and balance myself. It does make changing tires more difficult, but I don’t have to worry about a flat in the middle of nowhere. Just follow the instructions, AND FOR GODS SAKE USE ARMORALL LIBERALLY!!! The Armorall Protectant is the secret to success!!
Funny how there so many 450l/rls that on the used market with less than 500 miles for far less than msrp on a new one...
Brilliant review,do you have the vortex ecu fitted.
I do actually. I installed after about 600 miles or so. Best money spent besides my FMF exhaust.
The big hold back for me on the bike is the valve maintenance interval. Shim under bucket valves are not exactly super easy to deal with. And it seems they recommend a top-end refresh every 32,000 miles. I likely change my oil far more often then a thousand miles on my wr250r. Do you plan to do the wrenching on that yourself or for major service do you take it to the dealer?
Did you balance the wheels when you did the tubliss? I've heard it can mess up the balance on the open road if you dont?
I did. Took about 3.5 to 4oz to balance due to the bead lock.
Valves check need to be done every 2000k i think?
Nice bike and video.
Correct and Thank you!!
Hey Mike great 4k review, I had a question since your riding style seems similar to mine. Being a 450 based off the R, does the bike want to come up/wheelie when unintended? I've never rode a 450 4 stroke on the street before (250s mainly) and was worried if say I'm just coming from a stop into traffic that the front end is going to pop up. Your video doesn't seem to show that however which is making me interested in it.
Great question! With proper throttle and clutch technique and seating position it is very mild mannered. Of course any bike will be, unless you ride aggressively, then yes the front will come up. I generally never get into first after I leave the house, unless I’m in a parking lot. It has plenty of power to leave in second from a light. The ecu and pipe added power, but even then it is still very rideable on the road!!
the swingarm is longer than the CRF 450 R
Did you keep the plastic bash plate? is it sufficent for light enduro?
I do still have the plastic bash/skid plate still on my CRF. If your local trails generally consist of logs and smaller rock ledges, then yes I would consider it sufficient. If your riding on rocky, or larger sized obstacles that are only a couple inches wide at their peak, then I would definitely pick up an aftermarket setup. Great question!
Question for ya. With the IMS tank does the low fuel light come on ? And when ?
Thanks Mike
It does indeed with the IMS. It usually comes on between 100-115 miles or so. Depends on what type of riding I’ve been doing... highway, single track, minimum maintenance and gravel. If I’m not mistaken, it comes on when there is .8 to .6 gallons left. I will say that with the Vortex ECU, it does keep your fuel consumption really close to the actual amount shown on the display. I average between 44-48 mpg depending on the type of riding...
Thank you.
Bought 3 more days of watching video after video before deciding between 21 crf450Rl or the 21 husqvarna fe501s... I’m torn
Husqvarna 701 !!!
@@istra70 too many problems with husqvarnas
@@Bnrjms True. Some suffer from reliability issues just like KTM. I still think they are great bikes - you just need to thoroughly test them locally - before going around the World.
Yeah.. don't care about oil changes, do'm all day long. No big whoop. However, I'm not a mechanic so.what about the VALVE CHECKS!!! No mention?????
Awesome video! I know where you live. Gonna start throwing random peices of plastic where you live. Your welcome!